Bees are fascinating and beekeeping is fun. Out of respect for their ability to sting, I usually suit up with protective gear before invading their space at the apiary. When bees get too crowded they swarm. We have a swarm box mounted in a tree on the edge of our property. Last week we noticed a swarm in the box. The idea situation is to relocate the hive and then return it to the farm. This is done after dark when you can seal up the hive.
Last night I rode in the truck to the tree line and the plan was for my husband to go up the ladder, cover the opening and bring the swarm box down. When you mix the words dark, ladder and bees you usually know there could be an accident. I tagged along just in case and thought a ride to their new home would be nice.
The bees had recently relocated themselves due to swarming. The temperature was quite warm for an April evening. These changes in their routine made them a little aggression. They were still outside the box well after dark. My husband suited up and climbed the ladder. He was brushing them off the opening so he could close it up. They decided that was the final change in their routine! I heard them popping the truck windshield and knew they were angry.
My husband was covered in bees so he shouted for me to drive the truck out of the field while he walked away taking the hitchhikers with him. I thought the coast was clear and opened my door to go around to the driver’s side. Then…ouch! I had not planned to get out so I had sneakers on but no socks. That mad bee found my bare ankle. By the time I got in the truck, drove to the road and got my shoe off it was painful The stinger was releasing toxins until I could safely remove the stinger.
This morning my foot is quite puffy and itchy. The bee was just protecting his honey and had no idea we were there to give him a nice new home.
I guess we find ourselves with disrupted routines right now. Hopefully, our reactions will be a little different than my bee friend’s reaction. All too often we allow our words to sting when we get upset. We walk away and don’t stick around to see the results of that sting. When our bees are aggressive, we call them “testy”. Are any of you feeling irritable and on edge?
It requires effort to process our emotions. It may require stepping away for a bit before reacting. Maybe you have multiple people in your home. You have hidden snacks to make them last for a couple of weeks. The bank account is reflecting the money spent to buy extra toilet paper. You are trying to work while a spouse tries to work. Two kids have school work to complete and the toddler needs a nap. No one is in their regular routine.
We will make it through. I don’t promise there will be no stings, but we will survive. God has equipped us to handle a lot and when we can’t, he steps in. Tomorrow my foot will be less swollen. I will forget the sting and move on. I won’t forget the love and compassion my husband showed when he made a compress from plantain, iced my foot and hugged me. How we react to the disruptions in our routine will be remembered by our family.
Word for Today
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12
Song for Today
Prayer for Today
Dear God,
We feel like we are living in a bad dream right now. Each day brings changes we did not expect. We ask that you remind us that You do not change.
Give us patience, love and compassion as we interact with those around us. Comfort us with your peace and forgiveness. Then help us show that same forgiveness to those that are irritating us due to the disruptions in all of our routines.
Amen
Walking Them Home 